Valentino Rossi's VR46 Racing Team is on the verge of securing a new multi-year partnership with Ducati, despite receiving overtures from Aprilia for the 2027 season when MotoGP transitions to its new 850cc regulations.
Team principal Uccio Salucci confirmed that Aprilia had approached VR46 about supplying satellite bikes for the upcoming regulatory era. However, he made it clear that his team's loyalty remained firmly with Ducati throughout the discussions.
"We spoke with Aprilia a little bit because Aprilia wanted to speak with us and we are gentlemen," Salucci said in an exclusive interview at Buriram. "I have known Massimo Rivola for many, many years. When Valentino Rossi tried Formula 1 with Ferrari, Massimo Rivola, he managed the situation in 2004, 22 years ago."
Salucci praised the Aprilia CEO's credentials while explaining the nature of their conversations. "I know Massimo; he's a very good man and a very good manager. We spoke sometimes, two or three times [because] why not? But I never thought of changing from Ducati."
The VR46 team has established itself as a formidable force since joining MotoGP's premier class in 2022, leveraging Ducati's dominant Desmosedici package to achieve multiple race victories. Their relationship with the Bologna-based manufacturer was further strengthened in 2024 when VR46 gained factory-supported status, allowing riders like Fabio di Giannantonio to receive the latest machinery directly from Ducati.
"We are very close to signing. There remain some small, small details. I think in the next month [there may be an announcement]. We are really close to signing for Ducati again," Salucci revealed.
According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the new contract is expected to span three years, covering the 2027, 2028, and 2029 seasons. This timeline would take VR46 well into MotoGP's new technical era.
When pressed about his satisfaction with the Ducati partnership, Salucci was emphatic in his response. "For sure. It's the best bike in the world."
The timing of these discussions comes as MotoGP undergoes significant changes in its manufacturer landscape. Ducati previously supplied as many as eight bikes on the grid until 2024, but Pramac's departure to Yamaha has reduced their satellite presence to two teams alongside the factory squad.
The 2027 season will mark a pivotal moment for MotoGP, with new 850cc regulations set to reshape the competitive landscape. Teams and manufacturers are currently working not only on technical preparations but also on new commercial agreements with MotoGP Sports Entertainment that will come into effect alongside the regulatory changes.
Until these broader commercial frameworks are finalized, formal announcements regarding manufacturer partnerships and rider lineups for 2027 are expected to remain on hold. However, VR46's commitment to Ducati appears to be one of the first major pieces of the puzzle to fall into place for the new era.